President's Blog - December 2017

Dear SBSM Members,

Holiday greetings! 2017 is winding down and it’s been a very busy year for the SBSM. The society now has over 260 members, 12 accredited BSM training programs, a practice and consultation webinar, a bi-monthly virtual journal club, and an active social media presence.  We have a monthly newsletter, The Sleep Talker, which provides announcements about SBSM events and featured members (check out this month’s featured members). Behind the scenes, work is continuing on the BSM exam and the formation of a new scientific advisory committee. Collectively, we have brought greater value to our membership.

These activities would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our committees. I want to thank each of our committee members for their service to the SBSM.  At the same time, we would not be successful without the participation of our members. I want to say a big thank you to all of our members for your engagement and involvement in SBSM activities over the past year. 

As we move into 2018, we will continue to enhance the value of being an SBSM member. The education committee is making plans to expand the educational offerings that precede the SBSM reception at SLEEP 2018 in Baltimore.  Our 2018 Fall Course will move to Birmingham, AL. 

Here are a few other highlight in the coming months:

1. The membership committee is developing a challenge for members to renew their membership and bring others on-board.  Look for details to be announced soon!

2. The credentialing committee is building a database of potential items for the new BSM exam. SBSM members who passed the previous CBSM exam should have received an email from Dr. Don Townsend, chair of the credentialing committee, inviting you to submit items. Please take the time to provide input to the exam.  This will help to ensure that the exam reflects the best practices of BSM.

3. The Board of Directors has been working on the first draft of the BSM concept map. This concept map will serve as a “State of the SBSM” which members can use to identify research gaps in BSM, to develop a description of BSM clinical services, and to recruit BSM students. In early 2018, we will be posting a draft of the concept map for SBSM members to provide their input and suggestions. Look for this to come out soon!

I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.

With warm regards,
Jason Ong, Ph.D.
SBSM President

Jason Ong, Ph.D.
SBSM President